Karen Devine Gets Her Star — And the Desert Shows Up

Story and Photos by Pat Krause

The 486th Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars was awarded to Karen Devine, and it felt like the whole desert came out to see it. The dedication took place at 112 North Palm Canyon Drive on March 27th, where hundreds lined the street to honor a woman who has been part of their daily lives for more than 30 years.

Karen Devine in White with Family and Friends at her Star -photo Pat Krause

Karen Devine is not just a familiar face on television. She is a celebrated broadcast journalist, an evening anchor, and an investigative reporter on KESQ Channel 3. Before the unveiling, she moved easily through the crowd, greeting friends, co-workers, and longtime viewers, many of whom seemed just as excited as she was.

Karen Devine's father, Karen Devine, Her Husband, Gino Lamont, John White and Mary Bono. - photo Pat Krause

The first speaker, Gino Lamont, shared how he first met Devine and how she helped change the course of his life by giving him his first job in television. His stories had the crowd laughing, and at times, you could see Devine wiping away a few tears. Another co-worker, John White, spoke about knowing her both professionally and personally. He described her as not only a strong journalist, but also a caring, trustworthy, and devoted wife and mother—qualities viewers at home may not always see.

Karen Devine with her Star replica - photo Pat Krause

Speaker after speaker talked about her career, from interviewing celebrities to asking the tough questions of local politicians and business leaders. Her sons shared that they have hours and hours of recordings from her shows, a testament to her long career. They also spoke about how, despite the demands of her work, she always found time for her family—often making meals after long hours of research and reporting.

John White, Karen Devine and Patrick Evans. -photo Pat Krause

Longtime friend Mary Bono spoke about how Devine helped shape the Coachella Valley as it grew over the years, giving a voice to the community through her reporting.

Devine was presented with a replica of her star for her home, and the City of Palm Springs issued a proclamation declaring March 27th as Karen Devine Day. When the star was finally unveiled, the crowd responded with loud cheers.

Even in the heat of a 100-degree day, people stayed for the full two-hour event. Devine remained afterward, taking photos with anyone who asked. Many of the younger attendees grew up watching her on television, and it showed. For them, she was more than a news anchor—she was part of their lives.

And on this day, the desert made sure she knew it.